Application of indicators in urban and megacities disaster risk management: a case study of Metro Manila, September 2006

This topical report discusses the process, findings and progress of the implementation of the Megacity Indicators System (MIS or MEGA-Index) in Metro Manila, as one of the tools of the 3cd Program. Specifically, it contains the background, purpose, organization, application, analysis of results, and finding and recommendations from the pilot process initiated in the metropolis over the past two years (2005-2006). The main objective of EMI’s Cross-Cutting Capacity Development (3cd) Program is to empower local governments, local institutions and communities to incorporate risk reduction options in their daily activities. In the context of the 3cd Program, EMI is devising several risk communication and risk reduction monitoring tools. One of the most promising is the use of a Megacity Indicators System (MIS). The MIS is a tool to communicate risk and promote discussion around appropriate strategies and concrete actions that cities can devise for risk reduction and management. This tool helps enhance ownership within city stakeholders and assists in policy development, decision-making, and monitoring effectiveness of specific options adopted.